The Rock River House is a private home in Rockton, Illinois, designed by Bruns Architecture and published in March 2015. It sits on a narrow wedge of land at a bend in the Rock River, across from a crescent-shaped waterfall edge.
Key facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Rockton, Illinois |
| Architect | Bruns Architecture |
| Facade | Reclaimed redwood from a decommissioned local civic building |
| Other materials | Stone from a Wisconsin quarry, mahogany millwork |
| Rooms of note | Sunlit conservatory, art studio with terrace |
What does the house look like?
From the street it reads as a few furniture-like wood boxes that fit the neighborhood. On the river side it opens into a glass form with wide views of the water. The stepping volumes echo the crescent waterfall nearby, and wall and ceiling planes catch reflections of sunlight off the river.
How was the site used?
The family had admired the small, overgrown lot for years. The plan splits the land into outdoor spaces and keeps the narrowest tip as a view corridor for the community. Glazing is engineered to hold winter heat in and keep summer sun out, and the walls and roof are heavily insulated, with average R-values of 31 and 56.
Who is Bruns Architecture?
Bruns Architecture describes itself as a small group of dedicated architects founded by Stephen Bruns, and has also designed projects such as the Fieldstone House, The Music House, The Lantern House and The Bluff House. See its work at brunsarchitecture.com. We have not re-verified the awards listed in our earlier article, so we left them out.
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FAQ
Where is the Rock River House?
In Rockton, Illinois, on the Rock River.
Who designed the Rock River House?
Bruns Architecture.
What is the facade made of?
Reclaimed redwood from a decommissioned local civic building, partly wire brushed.
Is the house for sale?
We found no listing; it appears to be a private residence.
What inspired the shape?
The stepped volumes echo the crescent-shaped waterfall edge near the site.
Last updated: October 2026.
